A career in jewelry design and repair often starts as a hobby. Tinkering with beads and wire whets the desire for more advanced metalsmithing and glass work. Every year, a few more hobbyists hone their skills in jewelry design and repair courses to help them turn their personal passions into professional careers.
Jewelry Design & Repair Careers
While jewelry sales may decline during a slumping economy, experts suggest that a career in jewelry design and repair is nearly recession-proof. In fact, Americans are generally more likely to repair heirloom jewelry during financial hard times. Meanwhile, independent designers with good marketing skills can frequently build client rosters during market downturns by competing against established designers on price.
Jeweler and Jewelry Designer Salary and Career Outlook
Here's an idea of what jewelry designers might expect in terms of salary and job growth in the coming years:
| Career | Total Employment | Annual Mean Wage |
|---|---|---|
| Jewelers and Precious Stone and Metal Workers | 23,590 | $45,950 |
Getting a Job in Jewelry Repair
Statisticians find it difficult to measure the real salary of jewelry repair and design professionals. While some retail shops and repair services offer standard salaries, many self-employed jewelry design and repair professionals earn widely varying incomes. Instead of earning an hourly rate, many of these professionals get paid a fee for each completed job or for each product sold. This flexible career allows hobbyists to earn a second income, while rewarding dedicated workers with larger commissions and service fees. Artists and experts in restoration can often command their own prices. Look into taking online jewelry design and repair courses to open the door to a creative career.
Sources:
Jewelers and Precious Stone and Metal Workers, Occupational Outlook Handbook, Bureau of Labor Statistics, accessed June 2019, https://www.bls.gov/ooh/production/jewelers-and-precious-stone-and-metal-workers.htm
Jewelers and Precious Stone and Metal Workers, Occupational Employment Statistics, Bureau of Labor Statistics, accessed June 2019, https://www.bls.gov/oes/2017/may/oes519071.htm